Dublin in celebration: Christmas markets, pubs and illuminations

Fáilte go hÉireann, welcome to Ireland! Upon arrival at the airport, easily reach the city centre with the Dublin Express bus. Departures are frequent and the route is direct.

After dropping off your luggage, set off to explore Dublin at your own pace. In December, night falls early, and it's precisely at this time that the city reveals its full Christmas atmosphere.

River Liffey and Ha'penny Bridge. Start with a stroll along the River Liffey, the true lifeblood of the capital. As night falls, the city lights are reflected on the water all the way to the famous Ha'penny Bridge.

Grafton Street. Continue towards Dublin's main pedestrian street. Festive shop windows, illuminations and street musicians create a particularly warm atmosphere.

Temple Bar. In the evening, head to this neighborhood with its cobbled streets and colorful facades. Settle into one of its pubs for a drink, dinner, or a traditional Irish music concert.

Night in Dublin.

Today, enjoy a full day discovering Dublin, between heritage, history and Irish atmosphere.

Trinity College and the Book of Kells. Founded in 1592, Trinity College is the oldest university in Ireland. Discover the Book of Kells, an illuminated manuscript from the 9th century, and then the Long Room of the Old Library.

Christ Church Cathedral. In the heart of medieval Dublin, this cathedral, founded nearly a thousand years ago, houses a vast crypt with numerous historical artifacts.

St. Patrick's Cathedral. Just a few minutes away, Ireland's largest cathedral impresses with its Gothic architecture and stained-glass windows. Jonathan Swift, author of Gulliver's Travels, was its dean. In December, cathedrals often host Christmas carol concerts and performances.

Guinness Storehouse. In the afternoon, head to the Liberties district and the historic St. James's Gate. At the top, the Gravity Bar offers a 360° view of Dublin, ideal as night falls.

Everwinter. In the evening, join this great winter event at the RDS: Irish makers' Christmas market, covered ice rink, vintage funfair and gourmet stalls (entrance fee applies).

Night in Dublin.

Continue your exploration of Dublin with musical culture, Irish whiskey and, if you wish, a seaside getaway.

Irish Rock 'n' Roll Museum Experience. In the heart of Temple Bar, this guided and interactive tour traces the history of modern Irish music, from U2 to Thin Lizzy, between recording studios and cult objects.

Jameson Distillery Bow Street. Another option: join Smithfield to discover the world of Irish whiskey, its history, its production and its tastings.

Howth. Spend the afternoon exploring this charming fishing village, easily accessible by DART. Stroll along the harbor, keep an eye out for seals, and walk along the East Pier to the small lighthouse opposite Ireland's Eye. On Saturdays, the Howth Market offers handcrafted goods and local specialties. Walkers can follow part of the Howth Cliff Walk to Baily Lighthouse before enjoying fish and chips at the harbor.

Wonderlights at Malahide Castle. Extend your getaway north of Dublin: at nightfall, the castle gardens become a grand illuminated trail, with an Alpine-inspired gourmet village (entrance fee applies).

TwinkleTown. If you prefer to stay in town, end the evening at Smithfield Square: Christmas market, ice rink, Ferris wheel and rides (free entry, some activities require payment).

Night in Dublin.

You have two options: explore the landscapes of County Wicklow or enjoy a final day in Dublin.

Option 1: The Wicklow Mountains and Glendalough. St Kevin's Bus takes you directly from Dublin to "Ireland's Garden," a region of mountains, moors, and valleys. In Glendalough, the "Valley of the Two Lakes," discover the monastic site founded by St. Kevin in the 6th century: round tower, stone churches, and Celtic crosses. Then, take a walk from the Lower Lake to the Upper Lake. Those with more energy can follow the Miners' Road to the remains of an old mining village.

Option 2: Dublin and Phoenix Park. Enjoy a more relaxed pace in the capital. Stroll through Phoenix Park, a vast green space where deer roam freely, then return to your favorite neighborhoods.

Wild Lights. As night falls, Dublin Zoo, in the heart of Phoenix Park, transforms into an open-air light show, with large illuminated sculptures and immersive scenery (entrance fee applies).

Night in Dublin.

Depending on your flight schedule, enjoy your last few hours in Dublin with a final stroll in the city centre, some Christmas shopping or a last coffee.

Then take the Dublin Express to the airport from one of the city centre stops.

You leave with images of illuminated streets, cozy pubs and coastal landscapes, and perhaps already the desire to discover other regions of the island.